Intrauterine diagnosis is possible for chromosomal disorders and many rare inborn errors of metabolism. Most common birth defects and genetic diseases, however, cannot yet be diagnosed in utero. Diagnosable disorders of particular interest to psychiatrists and the directions of anticipated future developments are stressed. Since intrauterine therapy of genetic disorders is not feasible in most cases, abortion of affected fetuses is usually practiced. Psychiatric and social problems surrounding abortion for genetic and chromosomal diseases affecting behavior merit further attention. (56 pp.)